Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ngo Le Van speaks at the international press conference for the National Tourism Year - Gia Lai 2026. (Photo: cand.com.vn)

The tourism year, themed “Gia Lai – Mountains Embrace the Sea,” aims to promote the image of the Central Highlands province while showcasing Vietnam’s cultural and natural heritage. Authorities expect the event to strengthen regional tourism cooperation, attract domestic and international visitors and contribute to socio-economic development.

Vice Chairwoman of the Gia Lai Provincial People’s Committee Nguyen Thi Thanh Lich, said: “Hosting National Tourism Year 2026, Gia Lai hopes to create a strong impetus for economic and tourism development, attracting more visitors and economic activities to the province. We also expect cultural products and festivals to become distinctive tourism offerings and a unique hallmark of Gia Lai.”

Poster of National Tourism Year-Gia Lai 2026

According to Deputy Foreign Minister Ngo Le Van, the program will also support Vietnam’s cultural diplomacy strategy by linking tourism, culture and international outreach.

Van said: “This is an important tourism event and an opportunity for Gia Lai to introduce to the world the unique cultural, natural and human values of the Central Highlands. With its distinctive cultural identity, dynamic development mindset and the support of the diplomatic sector, Gia Lai has strong potential to become a prominent destination in Vietnam’s tourism landscape in the coming years.”

The opening ceremony will take place in Quy Nhon ward later this month, while the closing event is scheduled for December in Pleiku.